“Two More Bottles of Wine” by Emmylou Harris is a lively, honky-tonk anthem that captures the bittersweet emotions of heartache and resilience. Released in 1978 as part of her album Quarter Moon in a Ten Cent Town, the song quickly rose to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, marking one of Emmylou’s biggest hits and showcasing her ability to breathe new life into classic country themes. With its blend of upbeat rhythm and melancholy lyrics, “Two More Bottles of Wine” stands as a testament to her versatility as an artist and her deep connection to the roots of country music.
Written by Delbert McClinton, the song tells the story of a woman who moves to California with her lover in search of a better life. Unfortunately, things don’t go as planned—her lover leaves, and she’s left struggling to make ends meet. Despite these setbacks, the protagonist finds solace in the titular “two more bottles of wine,” a symbol of temporary escape and a means to cope with the pain of abandonment. The lyrics strike a perfect balance between heartache and humor, painting a picture of a woman who’s determined to get through tough times with a smile, even if it’s a little bittersweet.
Musically, “Two More Bottles of Wine” is rooted in a classic country rock sound, with driving guitars, a steady beat, and Emmylou Harris’ unmistakable voice leading the way. Her vocals are filled with both strength and vulnerability, giving the song an emotional depth that resonates with listeners. There’s a gritty realism to the way she sings about hardship and loneliness, but it’s delivered with a sense of resilience that keeps the song from feeling too heavy. Instead, it’s an empowering anthem about survival, even when life takes unexpected turns.
The upbeat tempo and rock-tinged production reflect the influence of Southern rock and country-rock that were popular at the time, with artists like Gram Parsons—a close collaborator of Harris—pushing the boundaries of traditional country music. The song’s energy and infectious rhythm make it a perfect fit for live performances, where Harris’ commanding stage presence brings the narrative to life. Yet beneath the upbeat exterior, there’s a deeper emotional complexity that adds layers to the story, making it relatable to anyone who’s ever experienced disappointment but refused to let it break them.
What sets “Two More Bottles of Wine” apart is its honest portrayal of a woman dealing with life’s challenges head-on. The protagonist’s attitude is not one of defeat, but rather of determination. She acknowledges the difficulty of her situation but chooses to focus on the simple pleasures—represented by the two bottles of wine—that help her get through the tough times. This balance between sorrow and resilience is something Emmylou Harris excels at conveying, and it’s one of the reasons she’s remained such a beloved figure in the world of country music.
This song also highlights Harris’ ability to interpret and elevate the work of other songwriters. Delbert McClinton’s lyrics are full of clever turns of phrase and relatable emotions, but in Harris’ hands, the song takes on a new life. Her voice, both tender and tough, captures the complexities of the human experience—especially for women navigating their own paths through life’s ups and downs. It’s a theme that runs through much of her work and has endeared her to generations of fans.
In conclusion, “Two More Bottles of Wine” is a prime example of Emmylou Harris’ talent for combining traditional country sounds with a modern edge, all while delivering lyrics that are both relatable and poignant. The song’s infectious energy, coupled with its honest portrayal of heartache and resilience, makes it a standout in her catalog. It’s a reminder that even in the face of disappointment, a little humor, and a couple of bottles of wine, can make things just a bit easier to handle.
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
We came out west together with a common desire
The fever we had might’ve set the west coast on fire
Two months later got trouble in mind
Oh my baby moved out and left me behind
But it’s all right ’cause it’s midnight
And I got two more bottles of wine
The way he left sure turned my head around
Seemed like overnight she just up and put me down
Ain’t gonna let it bother me today
I been workin’ and I’m too tired anyway
But it’s all right ’cause it’s midnight
And I got two more bottles of wine
I’m sixteen hundred miles from the people I know
I’ve been doin’ all I can but opportunity sure come slow
Well I’d be in the sun all day
But I’m sweepin’ out a warehouse in west L.A.
But it’s all right ’cause it’s midnight
And I got two more bottles of wine
I’m sixteen hundred miles from the people I know
I’ve been doin’ all I can but opportunity sure come slow
Well I’d be in the sun all day
But I’m sweepin’ out a warehouse in west L.A.
But it’s all right ’cause it’s midnight
And I got two more bottles of wine
Yes, it’s all right ’cause it’s midnight
And I got two more bottles of wine
Yes, it’s all right ’cause it’s midnight
And I got two more bottles of wine